ENGLISH
REFERENCE

brass neck

idiom
Meaning

Gall, shamelessness, cheek.


Origin

disputed origin

From stick one's neck out.

Examples
SIMPLE

He has the brass neck to ask for a raise after missing work.

CONTEXTUAL

She had the brass neck to show up at the party uninvited after their argument.

COMPLEX

Despite his obvious failure to complete the project, he had the brass neck to demand full payment for his services.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    albatross around one's neck

    A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.

  2. 02

    albatross round one's neck

    Alternative form of albatross around one's neck.

  3. 03

    bow-legged wi' brass

    Wealthy; having lots of money.

  4. 04

    brass ceiling

    An unwritten, uncodified barrier to promotion or progression for women in law enforcement or the military.

  5. 05

    brass farthing

    Something worthless or of small value.

  6. 06

    brass monkey

    Very cold.

  7. 07

    brass monkeys

    Very cold.

  8. 08

    break one's neck

    To make extraordinary efforts to achieve an end; to exert oneself in pursuit of a goal.

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